What is a “public ivy” anyway? Carolina has been described as one by the experts in higher education because we deliver the kind of learning experience offered at private, Ivy League institutions at an affordable price. Whether you’re a North Carolina resident or coming here from out of state, you’ll quickly see our commitment. If you are admitted to Carolina and are eligible for aid and apply by March 1, we will do everything we can to make it possible for you to enroll, regardless of your family’s income. And with tuition and fees among the lowest in the nation, more than 250 merit scholarship opportunities and the Carolina Covenant program to provide debt-free education to eligible students, we offer a variety of ways to help make coming here a reality for you.